The Tunisian pilot responsible for flying the Nigerian football team to Libya has spoken out about the controversial mid-flight diversion that left the Super Eagles stranded at a remote airport for over 16 hours.
The team, which was en route to Benghazi for their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifier against Libya, was diverted to Al-Abraq Airport, an airstrip primarily used for Hajj operations.
In a video interview shared by Sports Journalist Pooja Media on X, the pilot explained that the decision to divert the flight was not his but was mandated by Libyan authorities.
“Our flight plan was to land at Benghazi, Benina Airport, and we had received clearance from the Libyan Civil Aviation Authority,” the pilot said.
“But as we started our descent, they instructed us to reroute to Al-Abraq, nearly 150 miles away, around 300 kilometers east of Benghazi. This was not listed as our alternate airport, which poses safety risks,” he continued.
The pilot emphasized that such last-minute changes can affect safety due to the precise fuel calculations made for the initial destination. “In aviation, you plan everything meticulously, including fuel. Unexpected diversions like this can compromise safety,” he warned.
He also mentioned that he repeatedly questioned the directive. “I asked at least eight times to proceed with the original plan to land in Benghazi, but they insisted it was an order from the highest authority, and we had no choice but to divert to Al-Abraq.”
The pilot refuted media claims suggesting the decision to divert was his. “In aviation, everything is recorded. I can provide evidence of the approval for Benghazi. The diversion was entirely the Libyan authorities’ decision, made at the last minute.”
Speaking about the conditions at Al-Abraq, the pilot described the airport as poorly equipped for such a landing.
“There is no ILS (Instrument Landing System), no air navigation approach, no VHR (VHF Omnidirectional Range). We had to perform a visual landing, which is challenging, especially at night and in poor weather,” he explained, adding that a mistake could have left them with “no second chances.”
Despite the difficult circumstances, the pilot credited his familiarity with the region, having previously worked there for two years, with ensuring a safe landing. “It was not an easy situation, but thankfully, we landed safely,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Football Federation has announced that the Super Eagles have decided to withdraw from the scheduled qualifier match against Libya. “Players have resolved not to play the match, and NFF officials are making arrangements to fly the team back home,” a statement from the NFF confirmed.
